Obituary: Susie Allen
Susie Allen, 86, of South Portland, Passes Away
South Portland, Maine – Susie Allen, an 86‑year‑old resident of South Portland, died on Sunday, May 31, 2026, surrounded by family. A private funeral service was held, and she was laid to rest on June 6 at Riverside Memorial Cemetery in Cape Elizabeth, Maine.
Born in 1939 in Bradford, Vermont, to Leonard and Grace Griggs, Susie grew up in a close‑knit family. She married late Earle Allen and raised three children—Thomas, Laurie, and Katherine—while nurturing a lifelong friendship with her neighbors and church community. Earle and Susie’s sisters, Sharon Slack and Joyce Goodine, predeceased her.
Susie was known for her quiet strength, quick wit, and unwavering loyalty. “She had a gentle way that made people feel seen,” remembered Thomas Allen, her son. “I learned from her the power of listening and encouraging others.” Her neighbors recall how she spent mornings feeding birds and chipmunks, a small ritual that brought comfort to all who shared the porch. A devoted gardener and reader, she also enjoyed the company of her cat Sammy and the simple pleasures that made every day bright.
A long‑time member of the South Portland Church of the Nazarene, Susie practiced her faith quietly, offering compassion and kindness to anyone in need. Her generosity and attentive ear were hallmarks of a life lived for others, and many say her presence was a steady source of support through both joys and sorrows.
Susie is survived by her son Thomas Allen and wife Tina; daughter Laurie Allen and partner Brian Carroll; daughter Katherine Duperre and husband Richard; and her grandchildren Patrick Allen (wife Stefanie), Kelsey Jones (husband Gavin) with their two sons Wyatt and Ridge, Jessica Deschenes (husband Kyle) with daughter Ellira Jo, and Bradley Duperre. She was preceded in death by her husband and sisters.
The family thanks everyone for the outpouring of love and condolences during this difficult time. A private service will honor her memory; the family invites friends to share stories of Susie’s kindness and warmth at a later gathering.
